Housing Options Explained
Where you live affects your mental health, your well-being, and your bank account — at any age. Older Californians may choose to stay in their current home, called aging in place, with support such as caregiving or help with shopping or meals. Or they may choose another housing option. Here’s an overview of different housing types available in California to help make an informed decision about what’s right for you or your family.
Accessory Dwelling Units Accessory Dwelling Units, or ADUs, and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units offer older adults the option to live near family members while maintaining independence in a separate living space. These are also known as granny flats or in-law quarters.
Some areas of California have embraced ADUs to increase housing inventory. Homeowners thinking about whether to add a unit, perhaps for older family members, should check with the local building department. Learn more about ADUs from the California Department of Housing and Community Development.
Independent Living Sometimes called retirement homes, these are studios or apartments for people who don’t need daily assistance. These communities may feature recreational activities, housekeeping, and meal options in a community dining room. Other services may also be offered, such as transportation, although many residents keep their private vehicles.
Senior Communities Housing with age restrictions, typically for adults aged 55 and older, are called senior communities. Residents live in apartments, condos, townhomes, or cottages, all ranging in price. Many communities feature shared spaces such as a clubhouse, pool, fitness center, pickleball courts, theater, or library. Some have dining venues and many welcome pets.
Assisted Living This is housing for individuals needing assistance with daily tasks like bathing and medication management, with a degree of independence. These facilities provide meals and 24-hour support. Residents may have shared or private rooms, and access to common areas. California licenses these settings as Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly, sometimes called board and care homes.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities Residents pay an entry fee plus monthly maintenance for lifetime housing and access to various living arrangements and care levels. Many offer independent living for older adults as well as assisted living and skilled nursing for later in life, all in one location that usually features dining halls and recreation areas. This may appeal to people who want to stay in the same community as their needs change but don’t mind moving within a single community offering a wide range of amenities and care. Learn more about Continuing Care Communities from the California Department of Social Services.
Nursing Homes/Skilled Nursing This option provides round-the-clock medical care, rehabilitation, and assistance with daily living for those recovering from a hospitalization or living with chronic illnesses or disabilities. Medical care is the focus, with nursing care, meals, and rehabilitation services such as physical and occupational therapy available. These facilities are also referred to as convalescent hospitals.
Memory Care Communities Housing for people with Alzheimer’s and related dementias offers specialized 24-hour care, secure environments, and trained staff. Facilities may coordinate social activities tailored to unique needs.
Hospice Hospice care focuses on comfort and quality of life, including pain relief and nursing, as well as emotional support and help with everyday tasks. Settings range from one’s own home to a residential care facility, congregate living, or skilled nursing facility.
Public Housing Subsidized housing for low-income older adults, with no care services, may be available; contact the local Public Housing Authority for information.
Eldercare Locator The Eldercare Locator is a public service connecting older adults, caregivers, and family with local support services, including housing. For more information, call 800-677-1116 or visit eldercare.acl.gov.
For immediate help with emergency housing, call 211 or visit 211 online for referrals to local services.